SIMPLY PERFECT Take a fresh approach with these pared-back ideas
Just an illusion
Picking up on the trend for natural elements, this subtle woodgrain-effect carpet is a play on real timber A dark wood table and industrial-style lighting provide a stunning contrast Platinum Grain du Bois carpet, 80 per cent wool/20 per cent nylon, £89.99 a sq metre, from the Timorous Beasties collection, Brintons
Rugged mix
Make a dramatic impression by taking exterior finishes and bringing them inside Peek Architecture installed a feature wall of split-face slate tiles, cut in random strips, to unify the indoor space with the adjoining sunken terrace Balance the effect of such a stunning surface with a bold rug and contemporary furniture Find a range of split-face slate tiles at The Stone Tile Company
Wood works
An impressive staircase is an important link to different rooms and spaces and sets the tone for the whole house
This one gives a spin to the classic oak, teaming it with glass panels. Ensure it blends well with other spaces by using flooring in a toning or neutral colour Contemporary oak staircase with oiled treads and risers, a clear lacquer oak handrail and 10mm toughened low iron glass balustrade, from £26,400, Bisca
Flower power
Designer Kiki van Eijk’s flooring shows just how inventive parquet can be. The polychrome oak pattern of hexagonal elements, decorated by laser-engraved motifs inspired by weeds in her garden, turns the floor into the main feature of this smart, contemporary dining space Floral Spring polychrome oak parquet, from £345.60 a sq metre, Bisazza
Bold beginnings
The front door creates an all-important first impression Though current trends include oversized, extra tall doors, the simple lines of a contemporary design will look just as good in a standard size This style gets its modern credentials from the timbers running horizontally rather than vertically, and its long bar handle Porto E80 hinged door in European Oak, £4,200; Option 10 pull handle, £492; both Urban Front
Blurred boundaries
For a truly impressive finish, glaze the entire back of an extension, plus one or both sides These sliding doors are combined with full-height fixed-frame windows including glass-on-glass corners. The doors are available in widths of up to 3m
Wooden boards are a stylish contrast Grand Slider II aluminium sliding doors, £1,250 a linear metre including installation, ID Systems